Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has told his players not to panic as the Premier League season reaches crunch time.

The Citizens now find themselves in second place, trailing Manchester United by four points having led their rivals for the majority of the campaign.

However, Mancini has said that there is still a long way to go in the race to be crowned champions.

"We lost top place in the Premier League at Swansea City, but this is not the end of the title race as some people are saying," said the Italian. "Now it is very important we are very comfortable together as a squad and as a club. We must regroup and find our best form and the fans will play their part against Chelsea.

"There is no need for anyone to panic. Of course, it is better to stay at the top, but now we are behind, it doesn't change our target. Now we have to show we are strong physically and ready for the challenge.

"It has been a difficult few days in terms of getting results and some injuries to important players, but we all know football is like this. It is an unpredictable season, but we know the season still has a long way to go and that we can still win a trophy."

Manchester City face Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium tomorrow night.